Writing a CV

To apply for a job some employers will ask you for a CV.

A CV is a document that tells an employer about you so they can decide if they want to interview you.

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Writing a CV

Watch the video to find out what an employer likes to see in a CV.

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What do I write in a CV?

Information about you, like:

Your name and contact details like your phone number or email address

Information about your skills and experiences:

What skills you have and what you are good at doing. Look at Skills and what they mean

Any work experience or volunteering you have done

Any part time or holiday work you have done

Experience you might have helping others

Examples of what to include in a CV

"I would be good at doing this job because I am confident in speaking to new people"

"I am very good at listening to other people and I can follow instructions well"

"I am a friendly person who enjoys meeting new people. I would enjoy working with the customers"

Different CVs for different jobs

Do you think:

Find out:

You should change your CV every time you apply for a job?

Yes, you should change your CV if you apply for different types of jobs.

If you apply for the same types of jobs you can use the same CV.

For example, if you apply for jobs in a shop, you can use the same CV.

But if you apply for different jobs, like in a shop, hospital, or factory, you should change your CV to match each job.

What is a reference?

A reference is written by a person who knows you and can tell the employer more about you.
You add their name and contact details at the end of your CV.

Think of someone who knows you well and knows what skills and qualities you have. This can be a:

Teacher or Tutor
Employer (from another job or work experience and volunteering placement)
Social Worker
Youth Club Leader
Sports Coach

What is a covering letter?

You send a short covering letter with your CV.

It tells the employer why you are applying an a little about yourself.

If you are sending your CV by email to an employer, the covering letter can be written in the email. In the email you need to include:

Your name
The job you are applying for
Some of your skills

Before sending your CV

Make sure to:

Save your CV on a computer so you can change it when you apply for different jobs

Check for spelling mistakes. Ask a teacher or family member to check it for you

If you are printing the CV, keep it clean. Don't spill a drink or tear it

Watch the video

Welsh in the Workplace

Watch the video to find out about Welsh in the workplace and how it is seen as a key skill.
Please note: This video is in Welsh only with English captions.

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Documents

Download our guide to writing a CV

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First job CV template